The Transfer Tavern

Naim Sliti can light up Turf Moor after Burnley’s shocking season start

Burnley moved out of the Premier League relegation zone following a hard-fought victory against Brighton at the weekend.

The Clarets sat in the drop zone without a win in eight games prior to their meeting with the Seagulls. In an uneventful encounter, the deadlock was eventually broken by James Tarkowski who deflected home Jack Cork’s cross with his chest. Some resolute defending allowed Burnley to hold on for a valuable three points at Turf Moor.

Burnley were much improved against Chris Houghton’s men, controlling possession but failed to find their edge in the final third. Goals have been hard to come by for the Lancashire side this season, and Sean Dyche should be targeting a playmaker in the upcoming January transfer window to improve their form in front of goal.

One man who should be on his shortlist is Dijon star – Naim Sliti. Valued at £6.3m by Transfermarkt, the playmaker joined the club last summer on loan from Lille and was hugely impressive in his debut campaign. Sliti ended the season with seven goals and six assists in Ligue 1, and his showings prompted Dijon to make a move permanent for just under £2m.

The 26-year-old’s form has continued into the new campaign, registering three assists for his team-mates already. Sliti has also impressed on the international stage for Tunisia, scoring three goals in just four appearances in the African Cup of Nations qualifiers. His creativity and eye for goal could help Burnley steer away from danger in the New Year.

Sliti operates just behind the striker but is also comfortable on either wing, making him a useful option for Dyche to have at his disposal. The Tunisian has the vision to carve open Premier League defences, averaging 2.6 key passes per game this season. The playmaker also loves to beat a man himself using his expert dribbling skills – completing 2.5 successful dribbles this season (WhoScored).

Luring the former Paris FC man to Turf Moor could prove to be an astute piece of business.